Hello

I've never found maximum revs or top gear, let alone explored the limits of the multi-stage traction control, the different riding modes and other ‘rider aids’. It is so far beyond my ability as a rider that the differences between the Yamaha R1, Honda Fireblade, Kawasaki ZX-10R and BMW S1000RR are academic. But… I’m really pleased they exist. They’re the ultimate on-the-road motorcycling experience and everyone should try one once. I’m also pleased that the Bike team includes testers of all shapes and sizes, and multiple levels of riding talent and tastes, so that when we’ve got a road test going on the right people are on it.In the case of the world’s most impressive sportsbikes that means former GP, WSB and BSB rider James Haydon, and TT and road race specialist Peter Boast, massively experienced track day and road rider John Westlake and, representing ordinary mortals, Bike’s GSX-R enthusiast Paul Lang. Also in this issue - 28 page TT preview special, 10 years of Triumph Street Triple -Britain's best bike and much more...

Enjoy the issue,

Hugo WilsonEditor

Inside this issue...

LIFE OF A PRIVATEER TT RACER

When the right deal to ride the TT failed to materialize, Gary Johnson decided to go it alone. 'If this doesn't work out, I lose the house'

FIVE WONDERS OF THE WORLD

Thank goodness bikes like this still exist. Insanely fast, dynamically brilliant, each one is a winner. But as this is a test, one of them has to come out on top...

DECADE OF DOMINANCE

Ten years as Britain's best bike. Well, yes. Must be time for a sunny thrash on the stripped-back original and latest high-tech RS...